Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Dr. Zin Htway

Abstract

Influenza is a viral infection that is globally transmitted and that increases the risk for infectious diseases, hospitalization, and morbidity and mortality, especially among the older adult population. Although influenza vaccines are recommended in several countries, influenza vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge. In Lebanon, there is minimal research related to older adults’ attitudes and perceptions associated with influenza vaccination. To explore older Lebanese adults’ vaccination experiences and perceptions of the factors that affect their influenza vaccine uptake, a qualitative investigation was conducted. The theory of planned behaviors served as the theoretical framework for the study. A thematic analysis was conducted of data collected from online virtual interviews with 16 older adult Lebanese participants. Eight participants were vaccinated annually, and eight were not. Findings indicated that past experiences of influenza vaccination affected vaccination decisions. Most (n = 14) participants reported trusting their own doctor to give them vaccine information and said that family conversations influenced their vaccination decisions. Half the participants indicated that receiving influenza vaccination was beneficial for them. However, seven participants believed that there was a need for awareness programs. Doctors can help educate older Lebanese adults regarding the benefits and limited side effects of influenza vaccination. Furthermore, including family members in vaccination discussions, collaborating with the government and nongovernmental organizations on the design of awareness programs, and securing vaccine supplies may increase influenza vaccination uptake leading to positive social change through lower hospitalizations and mortality and morbidity.

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